What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
bullyboy
Example
The bullyboy at school would often pick on smaller kids. [bullyboy: noun]
Example
He acted like a bullyboy, trying to intimidate everyone around him. [bullyboy: adjective]
thug
Example
The gang was led by a notorious thug who ruled the neighborhood. [thug: noun]
Example
He displayed thug-like behavior, resorting to violence to get what he wanted. [thug: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Thug is more commonly used than bullyboy in everyday language. Thug is a term that is widely understood and recognized, while bullyboy is less common and more colloquial.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between bullyboy and thug?
While thug is generally considered more formal, bullyboy is more colloquial and informal in nature.